Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra

3 min read·Last updated: 2026-02-08·Reviewed by Dr. Julia Tzu, MD, FAAD, FACMS

At a Glance

Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a common, benign skin condition characterized by small, light to dark, raised papules that develop on the face and neck. The condition most commonly affects individuals with darker skin tones, particularly those of African and Asian descent, with prevalence rates up to 35% in Black Americans. DPN typically begins in adolescence and the number of lesions increases with age. While the papules are harmless and require no medical treatment, many individuals seek removal for cosmetic reasons. Care must be taken during removal to minimize the risk of scarring or pigmentation changes in darker skin tones.

Dermatosis papulosa nigra affects up to 35% of Black Americans[1]
DPN typically begins in adolescence and increases in number and size with age[2]
Treatment complications can include increased or decreased pigmentation, scarring, and keloid formation[2]
DPN is a benign condition that does not require treatment unless desired for cosmetic reasons[1]

Symptoms

Small, round or oval light brown to black papules (bumps)
Smooth or slightly rough texture
Typically 1-5 millimeters in diameter
Usually multiple lesions
Common on cheeks, forehead, and around eyes
May also appear on neck and upper chest
Gradually increase in number with age
Painless and non-itchy

When to Seek Professional Care

Cosmetic concerns about facial appearance
Desire for removal or reduction of lesions
Uncertainty about whether spots are DPN or another condition
Lesions that change rapidly or look unusual
Interest in discussing treatment options with a specialist

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Causes

Genetic predisposition (often runs in families)
Related to seborrheic keratosis family of growths
Exact cause not fully understood
Not caused by sun exposure, but sun exposure may contribute to development
Not contagious

How We Can Help

We offer several approaches to help manage this condition: Laser Treatment and DPN Removal.

Prognosis

DPN lesions are completely benign
No risk of transformation to cancer
New lesions may continue to develop over time
Treatment complications can include hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
Scarring and keloid formation are possible risks, especially in darker skin
Best outcomes with experienced practitioners familiar with treating darker skin

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN)?

Dermatosis papulosa nigra (DPN) is a common, harmless skin condition characterized by small, dark raised spots on the face and neck. It primarily affects people with darker skin tones, particularly those of African and Asian descent. The spots are benign and don't require medical treatment.

What causes DPN?

The exact cause isn't fully understood, but DPN has a strong genetic component and often runs in families. It's related to the seborrheic keratosis family of skin growths. DPN is not caused by sun exposure and is not contagious. It typically begins in adolescence and increases with age.

When should I see a dermatologist about DPN?

See a dermatologist if the spots bother you cosmetically and you'd like removal options, if you're unsure whether your spots are DPN or another condition, or if any spots change rapidly or look unusual. A dermatologist experienced with darker skin tones can provide the best guidance.

How is DPN treated or removed?

Treatment options include snip excision (scissor removal), curettage (scraping), electrodesiccation, cryotherapy, and laser treatment. The choice depends on the number and size of lesions. Treatment should be performed by a provider experienced with darker skin to minimize risks of scarring or pigmentation changes.

What are the risks of DPN removal?

Removal risks include hyperpigmentation (darkening) or hypopigmentation (lightening) of the treated areas, recurrence, scarring, and keloid formation–particularly in individuals prone to keloids. These risks are why it's important to choose a provider experienced in treating darker skin tones.

Can DPN be prevented?

Since DPN is primarily genetic, it cannot be prevented. The spots are benign and don't pose health risks. If DPN runs in your family, you may develop spots starting in adolescence, with more appearing over time. Treatment is purely optional for cosmetic reasons.

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